Wide-open skies in the heart of America

Nebraska has wonders in every direction: vast prairies in the east, majestic cliffs and peaks in the west and sand dunes in between, making for a trip as scenic as it is fun. The state is also rich in history, with many opportunities to explore its heritage. After listening to the stories, create your own. Tour Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park, venture along the Lewis and Clark Trail or explore a historic military fort. No matter where you go—or where you’re from—you’ll always be welcomed with a warm smile.

Nebraska is big, and so is its reputation. It’s the birthplace of rodeo, home to pioneer-era landmarks and crossed with historic byways that led homesteaders to the Old West. A visit here is a direct encounter with Western heritage. See one bold sunset set against the backdrop of the Sandhills, and you’ll understand what drove settlers across the grassland plains and over the bracing rivers to stake their claim to history. Farm tours, friendly ranches and farm-to-table dining, often under the stars, reveal the warmth of their descendants, who will feel more like neighbors than locals when you leave.

And when they offer you steak, don’t turn it down. It’s some of the world’s best, part of a long-standing culinary tradition of heartland comfort food often brought in straight from the farm. Becoming an explorer yourself is easy here, too, with an expansive, ruggedly beautiful landscape to walk, climb or bike.

Fun Fact

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Nebraska has more kilometers of river than any other state in the USA.

Must see places

The Sandhills of Nebraska

Along the 438 kilometers of this scenic byway through the rolling hills of central Nebraska, you’ll find towns, ranches and lots of opportunities to view wildlife, including the spring migration of Sandhill cranes.

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Chimney Rock National Historic Site

This rock formation, with its famous jagged spire rising toward the sky, was the most talked-about landmark among the settlers who traveled West. A visitor’s center here tells the story and offers you a chance to pack your own wagon.

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Scotts Bluff National Monument

Both the Native Americans and later settlers considered this 1,200-hectare range of sculptural bluffs an important natural landmark. In addition to viewing museum exhibits, drive Summit Road to the top of the bluff, hike Saddle Rock Trail or sign up for a ranger tour to learn more about pioneer history.